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In conjunction with “Global Handwashing Day,” October 15,
2015, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding people of
the importance of hand washing to stay healthy.

“Keeping
our hands clean is one of the best things we can do to keep from getting sick
and avoid spreading germs to others,” said Dr. Richard Melchreit, the DPH
Healthcare Associated Infections Coordinator. “Good handwashing at school and
home can help whole communities stay healthy. It’s quick and simple and can
keep us all from getting sick.”

Many
infections, such as the flu, can be spread by not washing hands. If soap and
water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that
contains at least 60 percent alcohol to clean hands.

Whether
you are at home, at work, traveling, or already sick, find out how good hand
hygiene can protect you, your family, and others.

When
should you wash your hands?

Before,
during, and after preparing food

Before
eating food

Before
and after caring for someone who is sick

Before
and after treating a cut or wound

After
using the toilet

After
changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet

After
blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing

How
should you wash your hands?

Wet
your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and
apply soap.

Lather
your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs
of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

Scrub
your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy
Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.

Rinse
your hands well under clean, running water.

Dry
your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

What
should you do if you don’t have soap and clean, running water?

Washing
hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of germs on them
in most situations. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Hand sanitizers are
not as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.